Yamaltu Deba, Gombe – A violent clash between Fulani herdsmen and youths from Lano village in the Yamaltu Deba Local Government Area of Gombe State on Saturday has left one person feared dead and several others injured.
The conflict, confirmed by the State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Buhari Abdullahi, began when community youths reportedly blocked the Lano-Deba Road and attacked herdsmen crossing from Kuri village, killing five of their cows.
According to Abdullahi, the youths accused the herdsmen of seizing phones from local farmers and obstructing the transportation of farm produce.
“Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer of the area led a team to contain the situation,” Abdullahi stated. However, despite police intervention, some of the youths pursued the herdsmen into the bush, escalating the conflict into a violent confrontation.
During the clash, three individuals were shot with bows and arrows. They were initially treated at the General Hospital in Deba but later referred to the Federal Teaching Hospital in Gombe. Unfortunately, one victim succumbed to stomach injuries, while the other two remain hospitalised.
The police have since restored calm to the area, deploying security personnel and vigilantes to patrol and ensure the safety of residents and road users. Abdullahi urged all parties to maintain peace, emphasising that the situation is under control.